Post by COWI

When visionary artwork becomes reality  We would like to congratulate ARoS Aarhus Art Museum and artist James Turrell on the inauguration on 19 June of As Seen Below, the world’s largest skyspace in a museum context. Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, the new skyspace features a monumental dome with a circular oculus opening to the sky. Standing 16 metres high and spanning 40 metres in diameter, this is Turrell’s most ambitious skyspace to date – and a remarkable addition to both ARoS and the city of Aarhus. We worked closely with Per Aarsleff A/S, SHL - Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects and, obviously, ARoS, James Turrell and his team, pushing the boundaries of engineering – which included: - advanced structural calculations for the double-curved in-situ concrete dome  - geometric optimisation of reinforcement using advanced 3D structural analysis and design  - careful design of the excavation and foundation to protect surrounding historic buildings. The dome is a testament to what can be achieved through strong collaboration between engineers and architects. All parties involved managed to turn an artistic vision into something truly extraordinary. The result is a technical achievement, and a sensory space where light, sky, time and perception converge. As Seen Below strengthens ARoS’ position as a world-class museum and adds a new cultural landmark connecting the museum to Musikhusparken, thereby enriching Aarhus as an international destination for art and architecture.  Congratulations, and thank you to everyone involved in bringing this unique project to life.

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